Marvel at the many minarets of Istanbul, Explore the ruins of Ephesus, Taste traditional Turkish delight, Admire the chalky white falls at sunset in Pammukkale, Sail over a sunken city, Laze by an idyllic lake, Enjoy a home-cooked meal in a Cappadocia cave house
Explore the mysterious land of the Ottomans Intrepid style. Get off the tourist track and visit a university, marvel at Suleyman the Magnificent's mosque or bargain for ancient tomes at the book bazaar. Try delicious Turkish delight, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath and discover the underwater treasures of the Mediterranean. Take the plunge and discover the amazing feast that is Turkey.
Physical Rating: 2 Culture Shock Rating: 2 Accommodation: Guesthouses/hotels (11 nts), multishare boat with shared facilities (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt), village homestay (1 nt) Transportation: Train, ferry, public and private bus, caique (Turkish boat), dolmus (mini bus), tram, walking Trip Style: Intrepid Original Group Size: Maximum of 12 travellers per group Departure: Departure is guaranteed Budget: Allow EUR €250 for meals not included.
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Visit the incomparable Aya Sofya and off-the-beaten-track sights such as the amazing Rustem Pasha Mosque. There is plenty of time to do some independent exploring here as well. Topkapi Palace and its magnificent harem for instance, provide insight into the life of the Ottoman Sultans.
Drop into a traditional teahouse or head down to the covered bazaar in this former capital of the Ottoman Empire. Be sure to try some of the town's famed chestnut desserts. In the evening, why not indulge in a traditional Turkish bath.
Days 4-5
Selcuk
History comes to life with a walk through the well-preserved streets of ancient Ephesus, former capital of the East Roman Empire. Then taste-test local fruit wines in tiny, traditional Sirince.
The chalky terraces of Pamukkale and the hot springs of Heiropolis make for a fascinating day.
Days 7-8
Kayakoy
Play backgammon with the locals and sip some tea in Kayakoy's tree-lined village square. Then get ready for a hike in scenic Saklikent Gorge and return to Kayakoy to trek the beautiful Blue Lagoon in Oludinez.
Days 9-10
Overnight Boat/Ucagiz
Pretty Kas is the starting point for a memorable overnight boat trip. Swim in crystal waters, cruise over an ancient sunken city and fall asleep under the stars. Back on land, spend the night in Ucagiz, a traditional fishing village.
Day 11
Lake Egirdir
The stunning town of Egirdir is perched on the edge of an enormous lake of the same name, whose tranquil waters mirror the majestic Mt Davraz. Enjoy sweeping views, fresh fish dinners and perhaps a relaxing boat trip or bike ride.
En route to Goreme, visit Konya on the plains of the Anatolian steppe, home of the Whirling Dervishes. In Cappadocia, be astounded by bizarre rock formations that rise out of the ground like fairy chimneys. This is a world of homes hewn in rock, cave churches and underground cities - it needs to be seen to be believed. Take a hike through local valleys to get up close and personal with the amazing landscape. A meal at our local hosts' home gives a close-up view of nature's handiwork.
The journey ends where it all began, amid the spectacular buildings and colourful markets of Istanbul. Why not visit a hammam to soak and unwind from this fabulous adventure.
Dates/Pricing
Disclaimer
* The prices listed are based on the costs and exchange rates current at the
time of printing/posting. Intrepid reserves the right to alter these prices
at any time. For trips departing between 01 January 2007 and 31 December
2007, the land price of your trip is guaranteed when you have paid in full.
For trips departing beyond 31 December 2007, prices are indicative only. The
itineraries and dates online and in our printed brochures are applicable
from 01 January 2007 until 31 December 2007. Beyond 31 December 2007 dates
and itineraries are indicative only and are subject to change. All
information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at time of
printing/posting, but please note that changes to our trips (which can be
significant) can and do occur. Intrepid will make every effort to keep you
informed of any changes, but cannot be held liable for any alterations made
to the published itineraries. Please refer to our website for the most
recent update to any trip. Please note that these conditions apply to
Intrepid group trips only. Variations may apply for Intrepid Independent
trips.
Loss of monies paid applies to all cancelled reservations. The date of trip
cancellation is the date on which the written cancellation is received by
Intrepid.
Please ask your Travel Agent about our full Booking and Cancellation
Conditions.
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